As we get closer to the NFL Trade deadline, some fans are wondering if the Patriots will decide to move offensive lineman Logan Mankins, who continues to hold out with a contract dispute.

Chris Mortenson of ESPN recently reported that Mankins plans on reporting in time to participate in the final seven games for New England, and that's a place that ESPN's Adam Schefter believes that is really the best option for the veteran.

As for a trade, Schefter doesn’t see one happening, although there are still factors that could come into play over the weekend that may change that.

“I haven’t completely dismissed the idea that they could find a trade partner,” Schefter said. “They’ve been adamant that if a trade were to occur they’d get a certain amount of compensation. Things are going to happen this Sunday that will affect what happens on Monday and Tuesday.”

Schefter also said during the interview that there hasn’t been a lot of trade talk around Mankins, citing the Patriots feeling that he's worth a first round selection, which is what it would take to reach a deal to let him go to another team. The other part of the problem is the fact that not only would that team have to give up the draft choice, they'd also have to give him a substantial contract in order to complete the deal.

“Is Logan Mankins worth a first round pick? Yes," explained Schefter. "Then you have to pay Logan Mankins the way you would a left tackle. A lot of teams in the NFL don’t want to pay guards, tackle money."

According to published reports the two sides were reportedly close to reaching a deal a month ago, but it didn't materialize and they still haven't agreed to one as of yet. Robert Kraft told sports radio last month that the two spoke on the phone and the conversation went well, so it's still possible that something could be worked out. Even Mankins' agent, Frank Bauer, sounded fairly upbeat recently, so we'll have to wait and see what happens in the coming weeks.